Originally micro-needling was performed with needles of varying lengths on a roller.  These are replaced by battery-operated hand-held "micro-needling" pens  that were based on tattoo machines.  The purpose of the needle punctures was to stimulate wound healing and trigger collagen and elastin production as well as skin remodeling.  The total result was from the needle puncture alone!

 

Soon afterwards the use of post micro-needling topical agents were introduced.  Research showed that for 20 minutes after the procedure 'channels' or microscopic holes  were open to allow delivery of products and substances to the deep ( active) layers of the skin called the deep dermis.  These areas happened to be where a lot of the pigment is produced as well as the thicker collagen and blood vessels.  At first only antioxidant vitamins such as topical vitamin A and vitamin C were used. Later bleaching agents ( hydroquinones and Kojic acid)  and hydrating agents such as Hyaluronic Acids were added to the list a post-treatment topical agents.

 

As part of the new wave of investigations in the field of regenerative medicine we have found that the single most active post procedure topical is autologous platelet rich plasma or PRP.  This utilizes a specific part of your on blood to "supercharge" the healing process.  The platelets contain proteins that act as messages to get the body to deliver "repair materials" to the area your treating.  The combination of micro-needling plus PRP has been found effective in repairing sun damaged skin, acne scarring, surgical scars, burn scars, hyper and hypo-pigmentation, as well as crinkly skin and fine lines.  Recently studies of shown this combination to be particularly helpful and stimulating hair growth in  certain types and thinning hair conditions.  Approximately 2 ounces of your blood was drawn and processed while a topical anesthetic cream is administered to the area to be treated.  This is then sprayed during the procedure and immediately after the procedure.  Any leftover PRP can be injected just underneath the scan to further stimulate the healing process.

    

                                                                 

 

Micro-needling is performed and a series of 3-5 treatments 2-3 weeks apart and there is no real downtime.  A flushed appearance and a recommendation to avoid the sign the next few days after the procedure of the only signs a give had something done.  After couple of these treatments your skin develops a beautiful glow signaling that your body has started recruiting new collagen in the last and.  A recommendation of a refresher treatment every 6 months to a year will help you keep your "glow on"!